7 Tips to Nail A Media Interview

Media interviews can be a great way to get your face in front of the public and position yourself as the dental expert … if they go right. Last-minute interviews make almost everyone’s palms sweat. After we come back, I’ll share some tips to help you be a media interview star.

– Last-minute interviews offer great promise for dentists.

– They can also offer great peril if you’re not ready.

– Colin Receveur here. Welcome to the Patient Attraction Podcast.

– Even if you’re an accomplished speaker or interviewee, “instant interviews” can catch you off guard.

– You get a call from the local media asking you to do an interview right now, over the phone.

– And you’re not ready.

– Here are 7 tips to help you ace that interview like a pro.

– Tip number 1: Don’t get stampeded.

– You don’t have to do the interview on the spot.

– Find out what the topic is, whether they’re talking to anyone else about the same thing, and what the listeners’ take-away should be.

– And then arrange to call them back, even if it’s 5 or 15 minutes later.

– Tip number 2: Do your research.

– Run a quick search on the journalist, at least the last 2-3 articles.

– You’re looking for any bias or harsh treatment of other interviewees.

– If you decide to do the interview, you’ll be forewarned.

– Tip number 3: Get your facts in a row.

– Make sure you have the most recent information at your fingertips.

– Tip number 4: Write down your key talking points.

– These should be 2-3 core messages you want to get across.

– Tip number 5: Take your time.

– Keep a measured pace, pause when needed, and ask for clarification when you need to.

– Tip number 6: Stick to the facts.

– “I don’t know but I’ll get back to you on that” is a perfectly acceptable response.

– And tip number 7: Be helpful after the interview.

– Pictures or other resources that can help the piece are always appreciated.